Washington is one a handful of states that has it's own exchange. The celebrated Supreme Court Decision, which allowed states without their own exchange to continue to provide subsidies, was never a concern in Washington State. Neither is the fear of huge rate increases.
When I went through training with the various companies regarding enrollment on WaHealthplanFinder.org, "Adverse selection" (a phenomenon wherein the insurer is confronted with the probability of loss due to risk not factored in at the time of sale.) was discussed and considered. Many companies offered limited provider networks specifically for this concern, and it appears to be working because the rate of increase has been decreasing. The primary reason for the ACA (aka Obamcare) was to get medical rates and increases under control. Something had to be done.
In 2016, many new companies and plans will be added to those already being offered. I expect the upcoming Open Enrollment Period (November 1, 2015 - January 31, 2016) to have many new applicants because the fines for not having coverage will increase to a level where people will no longer say "I'll just pay the penalty because it is less than the cost of insurance.
(2016 Penalty - $695 per adult and $347.50 per child (up to $2,085 for
a family) OR 2.5% of income, whichever is greater)
You can still enroll in 2015 if you have a qualifying event. Qualifying events are things like change of employment, divorce, birth, move to new state, etc.
Things you should know,
1. Washington does not use Healthcare.gov. I answer many question about things like enrollment deadlines that are different in Washington.
2. The primary purpose of the Washington Exchange is to make available premium reductions if your income falls below a certain threshold, (400% of Federal Poverty Level). If your income is above that threshold, the enrollment process is simpler and easier for those who don't use the exchange.
3. I recommend using ALLSTARFinancialInsurance.com where you can get instant quotes, calculate subsidies, apply online and have access to people who can answer your questions.
206-227-6677
